What do you think?
Rate this book
Who Counts?: 100 Sheep, 10 Coins, and 2 Sons
Oh, no! The man is missing his sheep! The woman is missing her coin! The father is missing his son! Can you help them find what they are looking for?
Who Counts? is a creative retelling of three of Jesus' most popular parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. As young readers count to help the characters find what's missing, Who Counts? teaches that every one of us counts in God's eyes and that everyone should feel counted.
The stories are beautifully illustrated with modern-day characters and a diversity of ethnicities so that all children will be able to see themselves in the stories. Ideal for children ages 4-8. Includes a note for parents and teachers.
Who Counts? is a creative retelling of three of Jesus' most popular parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. As young readers count to help the characters find what's missing, Who Counts? teaches that every one of us counts in God's eyes and that everyone should feel counted.
The stories are beautifully illustrated with modern-day characters and a diversity of ethnicities so that all children will be able to see themselves in the stories. Ideal for children ages 4-8. Includes a note for parents and teachers.
40 pages, Hardcover
Published May 17, 2017
1 person is currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Amy-Jill Levine
102 books327 followersAmy-Jill Levine is University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies and Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School and Department of Jewish Studies. Her books include The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus; Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi; four children's books (with Sandy Sasso); The Gospel of Luke (with Ben Witherington III); and The Jewish Annotated New Testament (co-edited with Marc Z. Brettler). Her most recent books are The Bible With and Without Jesus: How Jews and Christians Read the Same Stories Differently (co-authored with Marc Z. Brettler), Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner's Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven; and The Kingdom of Heaven: 40 Devotionals. In 2019 she became the first Jew to teach New Testament at Rome's Pontifical Biblical Institute. Professor Levine, who has done over 300 programs for churches, clergy groups, and seminaries, has been awarded grants from the Mellon Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the American Council of Learned Societies. Institutions granting her honorary degrees include Christian Theological Seminary and the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 17, 2017
Oh, NO! The man is missing his sheep! The woman is missing her coin! The father is missing his son! Can you help them find what they are looking for?
I love books like this to read with your little ones. First and foremost it is a teaching tool of the best kind. Learning about the kingdom of God. What it is like and why is it so valuable? As a parent, it is a good ideal to study up on your own on these parables to get some mileage and opportunities to teach your little ones. Another great thing is that it values learning with counting. Seeing the numbers and counting. When my daughter's were young, I was always looking for ways to teach them about counting and applying it in scripture is a bonus. The illustration is pleasant and familiar that will encourage connection to walking with Jesus. Highly Recommend.
A Special Thank You to Westminster John Knox Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I love books like this to read with your little ones. First and foremost it is a teaching tool of the best kind. Learning about the kingdom of God. What it is like and why is it so valuable? As a parent, it is a good ideal to study up on your own on these parables to get some mileage and opportunities to teach your little ones. Another great thing is that it values learning with counting. Seeing the numbers and counting. When my daughter's were young, I was always looking for ways to teach them about counting and applying it in scripture is a bonus. The illustration is pleasant and familiar that will encourage connection to walking with Jesus. Highly Recommend.
A Special Thank You to Westminster John Knox Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 26, 2017
Who Counts? 100 Sheep, 10 Coins, and 2 Sons by Amy-Jill Levine, and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso is a modern version of three of the most commonly told parables of Jesus: The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son. The up-to-date story and the illustrations makes the story real for today's children. When the others ask why did one sheep count or one coin count, they ask the question many have thought. The idea that everyone counts is simple but very important, especially in this day and age. The story of the Prodigal Son shows that even thought the younger son made a mistake, his father still loved him. It also deals with the issue of taking someone for granted, which he did with the older son. These messages, although taken from the bible do not stress Christianity, but simple valuable lessons for living in this world. If the parent wanted to then talk about the Christian message, they could add that on their own. The note at the end for adults is a wonderful addition. It explains why the authors wrote the stories the way they did and why they did not mention Jesus or God in the stories. I love that anyone could use these stories no matter what their religious belief. I highly recommend this book for families with young children . The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
October 14, 2017
Amy-Jill Levine, a professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School, and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, a rabbi and Director of Religion, Spirituality and the Arts Initiative at Bulter University and Christian Theological Seminary, give readers a fresh take on the familiar parables in Luke 15 in Who Counts? These stories of Jesus are retold in modern-day settings and with modern, diverse characters.
The book unfolds in three narratives. The first, “One Hundred Sheep,” features a ranch with a white, bearded shepherd, complete with plaid flannel, jeans, and cowboy boots. As he counts his flock, he notices that one is missing. Without hesitation, he searches until he finds the one missing sheep. “Ten Coins” features an African-American woman with dark, curly hair who misplaces one of her silver coins. She searches her house with a flashlight until she finds it. In the final narrative, “Two Sons,” the writers retell the familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son, or as Craddock calls it, “The Parable of the Forgiving Father.” Here, the father and sons are Latino.
Read more at http://jasoncstanley.com/book-review-...
The book unfolds in three narratives. The first, “One Hundred Sheep,” features a ranch with a white, bearded shepherd, complete with plaid flannel, jeans, and cowboy boots. As he counts his flock, he notices that one is missing. Without hesitation, he searches until he finds the one missing sheep. “Ten Coins” features an African-American woman with dark, curly hair who misplaces one of her silver coins. She searches her house with a flashlight until she finds it. In the final narrative, “Two Sons,” the writers retell the familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son, or as Craddock calls it, “The Parable of the Forgiving Father.” Here, the father and sons are Latino.
Read more at http://jasoncstanley.com/book-review-...
June 15, 2018
This is a sweet picture book that, through the retelling of biblical parables (e.g., the prodigal son), can encourage young children to learn how to count, love, and forgive. The easy to read text is clear and the story flows smoothly from the beginning to the end of each of the three parables. Also, the illustrations are colorful and go perfectly with the stories told in this book, which is sure to capture the attention of children.
I recommend this book to parents and teachers of children in preschool through second grade.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the book's publisher in exchange for my honest review, for which I am very grateful.
I recommend this book to parents and teachers of children in preschool through second grade.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the book's publisher in exchange for my honest review, for which I am very grateful.
May 23, 2017
*I received a free digital copy of this book for review. All opinions in my review are my own.
There some book covers that draw you in and this is one of them. The beautifully illustrated book cover of "Who Counts?" captivated me. It is just the kind of colorful, “moving” book cover a children’s book ought to have. By “moving,” I mean that the illustration alone conveys a story, an action, that invites readers to find out what’s going on. A farmer going somewhere with a sheep on his shoulders? C’mon, how adorable!
"Who Counts?" is a modern retelling of the “lost” parables – the parable of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost (prodigal) son from the Luke 15. It is geared for children 3-8 years of age or Preschool to Grade 2, and published by Westminster John Knox Press (released May 20, 2017). It is written by Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, and illustrated by Margaux Meganck.
Just as the parables in Luke 15 are not three separate stories, but one connected story with a driving point Jesus wanted to make, Who Counts presents three interconnected stories with a driving point that everybody counts or matters, searching for what’s lost, and celebrating being whole. Although, younger children will find delight in counting the sheep, the coins, and the sons. I counted them, too, and when the story says 100 sheep, the illustration presents 100 sheep!
I absolutely loved the illustrations in this book, and I think children will, too. They are beautiful and vibrant. Children will have fun looking for the lost sheep, coin, and son in the illustrations. For example, in one illustration, the farmer is pictured looking for the sheep hiding in the bushes behind him. In another illustration, the woman is looking for the coin just outside her field of vision. It is easy to envision how well this book will do during story times for preschools or Sunday school – especially since, this modern retelling is easier for younger children to understand.
Another aspect I loved about the illustrations is the diversity of the characters. Different ethnicity groups are represented, as well as different age groups!
There are a few words or terms that I felt might fly above some young children’s heads, such as responsible, flock, drachma, and the pods that pigs ate (my urban-suburban kids won’t know this), though they should be easily explained by parents and teachers.
In the story of the lost son, one illustration shows the son in a marketplace with a booth filled with produce. In the following illustration, the story and picture says there is little food in the land where the son is at. I know it seems like nitpicking, but these are the kinds of details children actually do pick up on. That said, these are the places in the story that parents and teachers can expound on. The Bible says there was famine in the land after the son spent all he had. Adults can point this out to inquiring children, expound on the story, and have a chance to refer children back to the Biblical text.
What I liked in the retelling of the prodigal son’s story, which would be my biggest caveat for teachers and parents, is the expansion of the father and older son’s relationship. In this, the authors veer away from Scripture. The father absentmindedly forgets about his older son. Traditionally, in the parables, the father represents God, who welcomes His prodigal children (us) without making us work for His grace and favor. God also doesn’t forget about His children, unlike the father in "Who Counts?" who forgot about his older son.
"Who Counts?" has a note to parents and teachers from the authors with an explanation of how they retold the parables and how to use “Who Counts?” to have further discussions with children (including question prompts parents and teachers can use). They include an explanation for expanding their retelling of the prodigal son. I think it added depth and a fresh perspective to the story, helping readers think about people we might have overlooked and so lost. I also liked it because I always related to the older son. I was the good daughter who stays and obeys, but feels lost in my stable environment. I think a lot of children growing up in the church feels that way, and it’s important for them to know they also count/matter.
Overall, I recommend this book to parents and teachers, noting that they should read it with their children, be ready to explain some terms to younger children, and use the prompts to start honest discussions. I recommend referring back to Luke 15, and helping older children use "Who Counts?" to understand the original parables.
There some book covers that draw you in and this is one of them. The beautifully illustrated book cover of "Who Counts?" captivated me. It is just the kind of colorful, “moving” book cover a children’s book ought to have. By “moving,” I mean that the illustration alone conveys a story, an action, that invites readers to find out what’s going on. A farmer going somewhere with a sheep on his shoulders? C’mon, how adorable!
"Who Counts?" is a modern retelling of the “lost” parables – the parable of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost (prodigal) son from the Luke 15. It is geared for children 3-8 years of age or Preschool to Grade 2, and published by Westminster John Knox Press (released May 20, 2017). It is written by Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, and illustrated by Margaux Meganck.
Just as the parables in Luke 15 are not three separate stories, but one connected story with a driving point Jesus wanted to make, Who Counts presents three interconnected stories with a driving point that everybody counts or matters, searching for what’s lost, and celebrating being whole. Although, younger children will find delight in counting the sheep, the coins, and the sons. I counted them, too, and when the story says 100 sheep, the illustration presents 100 sheep!
I absolutely loved the illustrations in this book, and I think children will, too. They are beautiful and vibrant. Children will have fun looking for the lost sheep, coin, and son in the illustrations. For example, in one illustration, the farmer is pictured looking for the sheep hiding in the bushes behind him. In another illustration, the woman is looking for the coin just outside her field of vision. It is easy to envision how well this book will do during story times for preschools or Sunday school – especially since, this modern retelling is easier for younger children to understand.
Another aspect I loved about the illustrations is the diversity of the characters. Different ethnicity groups are represented, as well as different age groups!
There are a few words or terms that I felt might fly above some young children’s heads, such as responsible, flock, drachma, and the pods that pigs ate (my urban-suburban kids won’t know this), though they should be easily explained by parents and teachers.
In the story of the lost son, one illustration shows the son in a marketplace with a booth filled with produce. In the following illustration, the story and picture says there is little food in the land where the son is at. I know it seems like nitpicking, but these are the kinds of details children actually do pick up on. That said, these are the places in the story that parents and teachers can expound on. The Bible says there was famine in the land after the son spent all he had. Adults can point this out to inquiring children, expound on the story, and have a chance to refer children back to the Biblical text.
What I liked in the retelling of the prodigal son’s story, which would be my biggest caveat for teachers and parents, is the expansion of the father and older son’s relationship. In this, the authors veer away from Scripture. The father absentmindedly forgets about his older son. Traditionally, in the parables, the father represents God, who welcomes His prodigal children (us) without making us work for His grace and favor. God also doesn’t forget about His children, unlike the father in "Who Counts?" who forgot about his older son.
"Who Counts?" has a note to parents and teachers from the authors with an explanation of how they retold the parables and how to use “Who Counts?” to have further discussions with children (including question prompts parents and teachers can use). They include an explanation for expanding their retelling of the prodigal son. I think it added depth and a fresh perspective to the story, helping readers think about people we might have overlooked and so lost. I also liked it because I always related to the older son. I was the good daughter who stays and obeys, but feels lost in my stable environment. I think a lot of children growing up in the church feels that way, and it’s important for them to know they also count/matter.
Overall, I recommend this book to parents and teachers, noting that they should read it with their children, be ready to explain some terms to younger children, and use the prompts to start honest discussions. I recommend referring back to Luke 15, and helping older children use "Who Counts?" to understand the original parables.
May 20, 2017
I adored this book.
I had originally thought this was a counting book. More for learning and encouragement purposes for my younger kids and reading circle. There was counting, but it was more about the fact that one was missing. It was separated into three stories. The first was counting sheep, the second was a missing drachma, and lastly was about a father and his two sons.
The first two were very similar in context Counting one hundred sheep or ten drachma and one goes missing. When they find their missing piece they are so excited that they throw a party and say that without them all they aren't whole. Last story, however, is slightly different. A man has two sons, one sons uses the money his father gives him to go traveling and the second stays home and helps with the farm. When the younger of the two sons comes home from traveling he's broke, hungry, and in need of clothes. The father cares for him and throws him a party, but forgets to invite his eldest son who stayed. When the father realizes his mistake he runs to his son and apologizes and explains that he completes their whole and without him at the party they are missing a piece. They last story drives home the importance of family, but it also imparts the message never take people or things for granted, like the father did.
I loved the message of this book. It was a little long for my two youngest, but I would suggest this for kids around 4 and up. The illustrations were appropriate for the stories and there were so many of them. Bright, colorful, and catchy Perfect for keeping a kid focused on the book and immersing themselves in the story.
I will definitely be suggesting this book to other parents and teachers and once I get a hard copy plan to read it to our reading circle.
I had originally thought this was a counting book. More for learning and encouragement purposes for my younger kids and reading circle. There was counting, but it was more about the fact that one was missing. It was separated into three stories. The first was counting sheep, the second was a missing drachma, and lastly was about a father and his two sons.
The first two were very similar in context Counting one hundred sheep or ten drachma and one goes missing. When they find their missing piece they are so excited that they throw a party and say that without them all they aren't whole. Last story, however, is slightly different. A man has two sons, one sons uses the money his father gives him to go traveling and the second stays home and helps with the farm. When the younger of the two sons comes home from traveling he's broke, hungry, and in need of clothes. The father cares for him and throws him a party, but forgets to invite his eldest son who stayed. When the father realizes his mistake he runs to his son and apologizes and explains that he completes their whole and without him at the party they are missing a piece. They last story drives home the importance of family, but it also imparts the message never take people or things for granted, like the father did.
I loved the message of this book. It was a little long for my two youngest, but I would suggest this for kids around 4 and up. The illustrations were appropriate for the stories and there were so many of them. Bright, colorful, and catchy Perfect for keeping a kid focused on the book and immersing themselves in the story.
I will definitely be suggesting this book to other parents and teachers and once I get a hard copy plan to read it to our reading circle.
May 21, 2024
This is really three stories together with one leading into the next. The first story is about a man with 100 hundred and when he counts them one day 1 is missing. He leaves his flock to find the one missing sheep and then throws a party. This leads to story two about a lady who has 10 drachma and one day discovers that 1 is missing. She cleans and tidies her house until the missing coin is found. Story three is about a man with two sons. He divides his fortune evenly between them before 1 son works hard throughout the time while the other spends lavishly and returns penniless. The man then throws the younger son a party but realises the older son is missing.
When I first started reading this one I didn't actually know it was based on biblical teachings but having been raised in a very religious household even I spotted the bible stories. If you are looking for an easy way to retell the stories to your children in an easy to understand way - this book may be your thing - but for me I still even now take issue with what the stories are supposed to teach.
just gives him stuff. To me this story always sent the wrong message - he doesn't earn anything - would he truly have learnt his lesson?
If you look at these from a religious perspective it is highly likely you may interpret the stories very differently from me but I just can't get past the point that this is simply worded - very accessible for children - but what would a child take away from it? To look for what is lost? Or be rewarded for...wandering off or wasting money?
When I first started reading this one I didn't actually know it was based on biblical teachings but having been raised in a very religious household even I spotted the bible stories. If you are looking for an easy way to retell the stories to your children in an easy to understand way - this book may be your thing - but for me I still even now take issue with what the stories are supposed to teach.
just gives him stuff. To me this story always sent the wrong message - he doesn't earn anything - would he truly have learnt his lesson?
If you look at these from a religious perspective it is highly likely you may interpret the stories very differently from me but I just can't get past the point that this is simply worded - very accessible for children - but what would a child take away from it? To look for what is lost? Or be rewarded for...wandering off or wasting money?
March 21, 2018
By Amy-Jill Levine, Sandy Eisenberg Sasso
Who Counts? is a series of three biblical parables connected together by people counting, missing “one” and then finding it again. The first parable is about the one lost sheep and the shepherd who goes to look for his sheep, and finds her. The second parable is about the woman who loses one coin and finds it again. The third parable is about the son who leaves his father and returns again. The transitions between each parable are seamless. All three parables are found in Luke 15.
The parables are really adapted and modernized for children so the text is simple and are loosely based on the biblical passages. I found it a bit of a challenge to accept the modernization of the parables myself since I personally don’t like to stray too much from the text of Scripture. I can see though what the authors were trying to do in helping children understand the context of the biblical principle being taught.
The illustrations are beautifully done and it’s fun to look for the clues of where the lost item is (i.e. you see the coin on each page while the woman is looking for it, and the sheep bleats while the man is looking for her).
A note to parents and questions to ask as you read is included on the back page of the book. The note includes various interpretations of the biblical parables and the authors’ intention in retelling the three parables for children.
I received an electronic preview copy at Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Who Counts? is a series of three biblical parables connected together by people counting, missing “one” and then finding it again. The first parable is about the one lost sheep and the shepherd who goes to look for his sheep, and finds her. The second parable is about the woman who loses one coin and finds it again. The third parable is about the son who leaves his father and returns again. The transitions between each parable are seamless. All three parables are found in Luke 15.
The parables are really adapted and modernized for children so the text is simple and are loosely based on the biblical passages. I found it a bit of a challenge to accept the modernization of the parables myself since I personally don’t like to stray too much from the text of Scripture. I can see though what the authors were trying to do in helping children understand the context of the biblical principle being taught.
The illustrations are beautifully done and it’s fun to look for the clues of where the lost item is (i.e. you see the coin on each page while the woman is looking for it, and the sheep bleats while the man is looking for her).
A note to parents and questions to ask as you read is included on the back page of the book. The note includes various interpretations of the biblical parables and the authors’ intention in retelling the three parables for children.
I received an electronic preview copy at Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
May 31, 2017
This retells the three parables of Luke 15 - the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son – in modernized settings and language modern kids can understand. The book is set up in such a way as to draw attention to the literary devices inherent in the original context and language to help modern readers better get the big point of these parables.
It is sometimes hard to put parables directed at a culture a few millennia removed from today into words that adults can understand, let alone kids, but this does a great job of bridging the gaps between today's culture and those of Jesus' time. I studied these passages in some depth during my Bible minor classes and know that the notes at the end of the book are accurate for what most Bible scholars agree is the main point of this passage. I like the very multicultural cast of characters and the attractive illustration style. A great resource for Christian families, Christian schools, or Sunday schools reading or studying these parables.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It is sometimes hard to put parables directed at a culture a few millennia removed from today into words that adults can understand, let alone kids, but this does a great job of bridging the gaps between today's culture and those of Jesus' time. I studied these passages in some depth during my Bible minor classes and know that the notes at the end of the book are accurate for what most Bible scholars agree is the main point of this passage. I like the very multicultural cast of characters and the attractive illustration style. A great resource for Christian families, Christian schools, or Sunday schools reading or studying these parables.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2018
This title contains three stories that tie together. The first focuses on a man who has lost one sheep but searches for her realizing the importance of each one. The second focuses on a woman who has lost a coin and searches for it realizing that all have value. The third is about a man who overlooks one son who is reliable and works hard while he rewards his younger son who is wasteful.
Based on biblical teachings, I think the first two stories do an adequate job of presenting the lessons we want our children to learn about the importance and value of each individual. The third story seems like a fail to me. Too much time was spent focusing on the younger child and too little time was spent focusing on the lesson.
While the wording is simple for a child to follow, I'm not sure my children would learn the lessons I want them to from reading this title. For that reason it's a pass. I will say that the illustrations were the high point, and I'll add a star for that. They truly are wonderful.
Story - 2 Star
Illustrations - 4 Star
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Based on biblical teachings, I think the first two stories do an adequate job of presenting the lessons we want our children to learn about the importance and value of each individual. The third story seems like a fail to me. Too much time was spent focusing on the younger child and too little time was spent focusing on the lesson.
While the wording is simple for a child to follow, I'm not sure my children would learn the lessons I want them to from reading this title. For that reason it's a pass. I will say that the illustrations were the high point, and I'll add a star for that. They truly are wonderful.
Story - 2 Star
Illustrations - 4 Star
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 27, 2020
This illustrated storybook retells the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son found in the Bible. The number-counting in the first two stories especially would be fun and educational for children. Additionally, these stories have shorter sentences on most pages and the messages of these stories are simple. The story of the prodigal son involves less counting (there are only two sons), and there are more words and a less obvious message. The final page of the book is a note to parents and teachers that explains the purpose of this book, the creators' interpretation of these parables as presented in the book, and a short history of what they consider to be misinterpretations of the parables and why. For these authors, "The main message is about counting, searching for what is missing, and celebrating becoming whole again." This is a big-picture understanding of these parables as the original audience would have understood them. The authors also encourage those reading to ask "where am I in the story?" The note explains the bible background so that even non-religious readers can understand.
May 23, 2017
This children's book is beautifully illustrated. It is written to encourage children that each one of us counts, each one of us is equally important in our Father's eyes. It is a retelling of three of the most popular parables that Jesus used in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 15:
1. The Parable of the Lost Sheep
2. The Parable of the Lost Coin
3. The Parable of the Prodigal Son
The only problem I have with it is that God is not mentioned anywhere in the actual text. It would be nice to include a reminder or summary after each story that points to God's love for us. The writers leave it up to the parents to convey this message to their children. Also, the third Parable is not completely Biblically accurate. Overall this book is a good concept, but I would advise parents to familiarize themselves with the three parables and be prepared to explain the Biblical relevance of each one to their children.
I received this as a free ARC from Westminster John Knox Press on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
1. The Parable of the Lost Sheep
2. The Parable of the Lost Coin
3. The Parable of the Prodigal Son
The only problem I have with it is that God is not mentioned anywhere in the actual text. It would be nice to include a reminder or summary after each story that points to God's love for us. The writers leave it up to the parents to convey this message to their children. Also, the third Parable is not completely Biblically accurate. Overall this book is a good concept, but I would advise parents to familiarize themselves with the three parables and be prepared to explain the Biblical relevance of each one to their children.
I received this as a free ARC from Westminster John Knox Press on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2017
Who Counts: 100 sheep, 10 coins, and 2 sons is a wonderful retelling of Jesus parable of lost things and people and how they relate to the kingdom, and caring for one another. Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sassa have presented this in a lovely easy reading picture book from a modern point of view that is just so applicable to today, and easy to understand and relate to. In fact, I found certain things in this retelling opened my eyes and heart to some things in the parables I overlooked. The lost sheep are on a modern ranch and the shepherd is in full cowboy garb. The lost coins by a modern woman, and the lost sons is also set in current times. The pictures are beautifully rendered watercolors by Margaux Meganck. This is perfect for children, for gifts, for church and public libraries, as well as children's Bible classes. This review is in exchange for a chance to read the Westminster John Knox Press draftgalley for netgalley. Thank you.
May 16, 2017
I was excited to see a picture book about these critical parables Jesus told to help us understand the heart of God. The first parable about the lost sheep was well done. The second, about the missing coin, made me raise my eyebrows a bit when the woman chastised herself: "It's my fault." If the woman is meant to show us the heart of God, what are we to do with that?
The third parable of the two sons, unfortunately, missed the mark. The father, who is representing God, "forgot" to invite the older son to the party! Not only did he forget, but he regretted that he could have overlooked his faithful son in such a way.
I'm not sure why the author would have put this spin on the parable of the two sons, but it made enough of a difference to me that I will not be purchasing it or recommending it for purchase.
I did like the illustrations.
I was given an ARC from NetGalley
The third parable of the two sons, unfortunately, missed the mark. The father, who is representing God, "forgot" to invite the older son to the party! Not only did he forget, but he regretted that he could have overlooked his faithful son in such a way.
I'm not sure why the author would have put this spin on the parable of the two sons, but it made enough of a difference to me that I will not be purchasing it or recommending it for purchase.
I did like the illustrations.
I was given an ARC from NetGalley
June 13, 2018
This book is a fun re-telling of three parables- the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. It contains both Biblical and educational content. It was fun to count with my 4 year old, and he loved the interaction with the story.
However, I was a little disappointed that the story of the prodigal son has a slightly different ending than the Biblical version. I would have liked this book better if it that part of the story was more accurate to the Biblical parable.
It is not easy to interpret the meaning of the stories and I also would have liked the book better if there was a kid-friendly interpretation at the end to finish the stories. There is a note to parents and teachers at the end, but I would not necessarily consider it helpful.
*I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
However, I was a little disappointed that the story of the prodigal son has a slightly different ending than the Biblical version. I would have liked this book better if it that part of the story was more accurate to the Biblical parable.
It is not easy to interpret the meaning of the stories and I also would have liked the book better if there was a kid-friendly interpretation at the end to finish the stories. There is a note to parents and teachers at the end, but I would not necessarily consider it helpful.
*I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
May 22, 2017
Who Counts? 100 Sheep, 10 Coins, and 2 Sons by Amy-Jill Levine, and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso is a modern version of three of the most commonly told parables of Jesus. The up-to-date beautiful illustrations makes the story real for today. When the others ask why did one sheep count or one coin count, they ask the question many have thought. The idea of everyone counts is simple but profound. The message stays the same but is clarified for young minds. The note at the end for adults is a wonderful addition.
I highly recommend this book for young children. The copy I received is digital but I will be buying the hardcover copy for grandchildren. It is exceptional.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
I highly recommend this book for young children. The copy I received is digital but I will be buying the hardcover copy for grandchildren. It is exceptional.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
July 6, 2017
I received this book in May from a Goodreads Giveaway that I had won and I have been catching up on my reading during summer vacay.
Looking at the front cover you might think that this is a childrens book about counting, but instead, it is based on Biblical stories: The lost sheep, the lost coin and the prodigal son. It is separated into 3 stories, however the 2nd story mirrors the first and the 3rd story I just did not like. The illustrations in this hardback book are wonderful, it is an educational, and inspirational book that will encourage further discussion.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book, I will be sharing it with others.
Looking at the front cover you might think that this is a childrens book about counting, but instead, it is based on Biblical stories: The lost sheep, the lost coin and the prodigal son. It is separated into 3 stories, however the 2nd story mirrors the first and the 3rd story I just did not like. The illustrations in this hardback book are wonderful, it is an educational, and inspirational book that will encourage further discussion.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book, I will be sharing it with others.
July 21, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this book. It's a 3-part retelling of some of the parables of Jesus. Using bright, colorful pictures it tells the story of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. The first two stories are great, the ones about the sheep and the coin. But then on the third story, the lost/prodigal son, it goes kinda sideways. I agree with an earlier reviewer who said they were uncomfortable with the slant it took. In trying to make the third story more like the first two it changes the end of the parable a bit. Story-wise it makes sense, but Biblically it's not a good interpretation. Otherwise I would be able to rate this book much higher.
March 28, 2022
Read in Sunday worship for Holy Surprise. I had this book on my radar for a while. When I worked at Yale Divinity School library, we had a copy. I was initially intrigued since one of the author’s, Amy-Jill Levine, is a New Testament scholar. I thought it was cool that a professor had written a children’s book. Today one of the lectionary readings was the Prodigal son story. I think the whole congregation was engaged with this story. I like that the authors simply tell the parables and don’t offer much or any commentary. The note to parents and teachers at the end is great and definitely worth reading for adults. I recommend using this book in worship when possible.
May 18, 2017
I read this book to my 3rd grade public school classroom courtesy of Net Galley. Students knew ahead of time that we would be giving it stars. A few students gave it 5 stars, and 2 students gave it 2 stars. The 5 star comments were that they loved the illustrations, they loved the message that everyone is special, if you love something take care of it, don't loose it. When I started the chapter about the two sons a girl blurted "hey, this sounds like a church story" Over all they enjoyed the book; we had wonderful deep thinking conversations about the book and the authors purpose.
May 19, 2017
Cute illustrations and cute idea for a Christian picture book.
The first story/parable was about the man who had 100 sheep and when one was lost, he searched for it and brought it home. There was much rejoicing.
The second was about the lost coin. The woman searched and found it and there was much rejoicing.
The third and last parable is the prodigal son. While this story started out well, I didn't like the idea that the father completely forgot about his son then went to invite him to the feast. Not scriptural accurate.
Thanks to netgalley for the early read.
The first story/parable was about the man who had 100 sheep and when one was lost, he searched for it and brought it home. There was much rejoicing.
The second was about the lost coin. The woman searched and found it and there was much rejoicing.
The third and last parable is the prodigal son. While this story started out well, I didn't like the idea that the father completely forgot about his son then went to invite him to the feast. Not scriptural accurate.
Thanks to netgalley for the early read.
December 25, 2017
The story really emphasizes counting, recounting, realizing someone/something is missing, and seeking out the missing thing because it is important to the whole.
The pictures all show correct counts. The initial page of one hundred sheep shows them grouped by tens, which I liked. The recounting step is also a good thing to see in a story related to counting (even if it's not intended as a math book.
Read the note at the end; it's pretty important for understanding the approach taken to the parables (especially the third one).
The pictures all show correct counts. The initial page of one hundred sheep shows them grouped by tens, which I liked. The recounting step is also a good thing to see in a story related to counting (even if it's not intended as a math book.
Read the note at the end; it's pretty important for understanding the approach taken to the parables (especially the third one).
February 10, 2018
I don't normally like "religious," "Christian," or "Bible" books for children. I always find something that I would really just as soon my child NOT read, thanks. Or they're so tediously pedantic that they're not worth the bother.
This. is. perfect.
And this is the only popular level book (for kids or adults) that brings home the full import of the story of the man with two sons. Yes, it's a story about forgiveness, and, yes, the father forgives the prodigal and welcomes him home.
But he also forgives the older brother, and invites him home, too.
This. is. perfect.
And this is the only popular level book (for kids or adults) that brings home the full import of the story of the man with two sons. Yes, it's a story about forgiveness, and, yes, the father forgives the prodigal and welcomes him home.
But he also forgives the older brother, and invites him home, too.
May 16, 2017
A man is missing one sheep, a woman is missing her coin – the father is missing a son ---based on the Bible’s parables but makes you wonder as to what are you missing – young people can help count the sheep, money and sons – and help look for them but also is good at pointing out how every single person should feel counted. Very nicely illustrated, well written and made me (a 67 year old person) look at these parables a bit different!
May 16, 2017
The cover made me want to look further. The artwork is wonderful.
I like the idea of this book but only the first story really interested me. The others too closely copied the first, down to certain wording.
The third story was my least favorite. Especially the part about not inviting the elder son to the party.
Alone they were OK but as a set it was disappointing.
I did accept this book from Netgalley to review.
I like the idea of this book but only the first story really interested me. The others too closely copied the first, down to certain wording.
The third story was my least favorite. Especially the part about not inviting the elder son to the party.
Alone they were OK but as a set it was disappointing.
I did accept this book from Netgalley to review.
June 6, 2017
This is a very good read for primary children. It teachers them that everyone is special and important by using parables from the Bible. The stories are well written any the illustrations are wonderlfully drawn. Even preschool children can enjoy this book as long as an adult can explain the lesson in each story. I highly recommend this book to any family as is teaches joy and inspiration to children.
March 9, 2018
Who Counts is a creative retelling of three of Jesus' most popular parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. I will be honest and admit that I haven't read the bible and although I did study religious education when I was at school this was something we didn't learn so even as an adult I have learnt from this book - 4 stars from me, easy to follow and understand and a good way of teaching these stories.
June 9, 2017
Interesting interpretation of 3 parables with great pictures.
I'll cut right to the chase: It was great, up until it dealt with the father and the older son at the end of the Prodigal Son Parable. Instead of what happened in the Bible, the author replaced it with a feel-good ending which some people might love, but I'm not interested in gutting and dressing Scripture.
I'll cut right to the chase: It was great, up until it dealt with the father and the older son at the end of the Prodigal Son Parable. Instead of what happened in the Bible, the author replaced it with a feel-good ending which some people might love, but I'm not interested in gutting and dressing Scripture.
July 27, 2018
Not only have I found a beautifully illustrated companion to three parables, I've seen the beautiful connection between them in this retelling. Not only does this book identify the importance of Jesus' parables (without making a direct reference to God or Jesus) it demonstrates the importance of looking at the parables together and not in isolation.
July 1, 2020
The message of the stories is positive and would be good discussion starters. The text sounds more advanced so wouldn't be as accessible to very young children, although an adult could tell the stories simply as they look at the colorful illustrations. This picture book transports some of Jesus' parables to modern-day scenes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews